EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s Workshop for Community + Collaboration is teaming up with the Work and Play Disability Community Center to host “The E3: Embrace, Educate, Empower Conference” on Friday, April 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the EMU Student Center, 900 Oakwood Street in Ypsilanti. This one-day event will provide an inclusive, welcoming space for individuals passionate about fostering equitable, supportive communities.

According to Christopher Robbins, professor of Social Foundations at EMU and one of the event’s organizers, the conference aims to deepen discussions on the experiences of neurodiverse individuals—people whose brains develop or function differently—and equip attendees with effective advocacy tools. 

“This isn’t just an event—it’s a celebration of community, inclusion, and the incredible strengths of neurodiverse individuals,” said Robbins.

The conference will feature professionals across multiple fields—including education, social work, healthcare, law enforcement, the arts, and government—who will share practical strategies, resources, and tools for empowering neurodivergent individuals in work, education, and public life.

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Learn practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent individuals
• Explore legislative initiatives and advocacy efforts
• Network with professionals, caregivers, and community advocates

To register for the conference, visit the website. A post-conference recap will be available on the workshop’s website.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves nearly 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings andpoints of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.